There’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of a pot of Beef Bourguignon simmering on the stove. As the rich scents of red wine, fragrant herbs, and tender beef meld together, it’s hard not to feel a sense of warmth and nostalgia wash over you. I found myself transported to cozy family dinners, where laughter filled the air and this classic dish always took center stage. Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon is not just a meal; it’s an experience, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want to do is settle in with something hearty and delicious.

What makes this dish truly special is its incredible depth of flavor and the way it effortlessly transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With each slow-cooked bite, you’ll discover perfectly tender meat and melt-in-your-mouth vegetables, all enveloped in a glossy sauce that begs to be mopped up with crusty bread. Whether you’re gathering around the table with loved ones or treating yourself on a weeknight, this Beef Bourguignon is bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why is Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon a must-try?

Comforting warmth: This dish offers a cozy escape, wrapping you in its savory embrace, perfect for cold evenings.
Rich flavors: A blend of red wine, herbs, and tender beef creates a depth that will tantalize your taste buds.
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice cooks can achieve gourmet results.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a dinner party, this classic dish steals the show every time.
Make-ahead magic: Prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld wonderfully, ensuring less stress on mealtime.
Versatile options: Feel free to adapt with gluten-free flour or different veggies to cater to various dietary preferences!

Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon Ingredients

Hearty and comforting components for a classic stew:

For the Stew
Olive Oil – A healthy fat for sautéing. You can substitute with avocado oil if desired.
Applewood Smoked Bacon – Adds a smoky richness. For a lighter option, use turkey bacon.
Chuck Beef – This key protein becomes tender when slow-cooked; cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your preference.
Carrots – Provide natural sweetness and required texture; sliced into 1-inch chunks. For variation, parsnips can be a delightful substitute.
Yellow Onions – Adds a sweet base flavor; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
Garlic – Provides essential aromatic depth; chopped is preferred, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Cognac – Enhances complexity; igniting burns off the alcohol, or simply let it evaporate if preferred.
Good Dry Red Wine – Essential for flavor depth; Cote du Rhone or Pinot Noir is recommended, but any dry red will do.
Beef Broth or Stock – Adds moisture and richness; vegetable stock can be used as a substitute.
Tomato Paste – Thickens and deepens the savory notes of the dish.
For the Finish
Fresh Thyme Leaves – These aromatic herbs add balance; you can use dried thyme, but halve the amount.
Unsalted Butter – Enhances richness; divided for use at different stages of cooking.
All-Purpose Flour – Used for thickening; can easily be replaced with gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
Frozen Whole Onions & Fresh Mushrooms – Boosts texture and flavor; omit frozen onions if using fresh.

Let’s gather these ingredients and prepare to create a bowl of comfort with Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon that will warm your soul!

How to Make Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon

Preheat the oven to 250°F. This low, slow cooking temperature ensures that the beef will become incredibly tender and flavorful by the end of the roasting process.
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat, then add your diced applewood smoked bacon. Cook until it’s lightly browned and crispy, then remove and set aside.
Sear the chuck beef cubes in batches in the rendered fat until browned on all sides, ensuring they develop a beautiful crust. This will take about 5-7 minutes per batch; set aside with the bacon.
Sauté the carrots and onions in the remaining fat until they’re lightly browned, releasing their natural sweetness—about 7 minutes. Then, add the chopped garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add cognac carefully, igniting it to burn off the alcohol. This adds complexity to the stew, but if you’re hesitant about flames, feel free to let it evaporate naturally instead.
Pour in the good dry red wine and beef broth until it covers the meat. Stir in the tomato paste and fresh thyme leaves, creating a rich and flavorful base for your stew.
Cover the Dutch oven and bake it in the oven for about 1.25 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Combine 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with flour to form a paste, then stir this mixture into the stew along with the frozen whole onions. This will thicken your sauce beautifully.
Sauté the fresh mushrooms in the remaining butter until golden brown, then incorporate them into the stew. Let it all simmer for an additional 15 minutes to meld those wonderful flavors together.

Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon

Pat Beef Dry: Make sure the beef is patted dry before searing for better browning and flavor.
Sear in Batches: Searing the beef in batches prevents overcrowding, ensuring even cooking and a nice crust.
Careful with Cognac: If hesitant about igniting the cognac, simply let it evaporate naturally to avoid any fire hazards.
Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on the size of meat cubes; ensure they are tender to your liking.
Season to Taste: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper throughout the cooking process.
Try Gluten-Free: If dietary needs require, use gluten-free flour for thickening without sacrificing taste in your Beef Bourguignon.

Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon Variations

Feel free to make this classic dish your own with these fun twists and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for thickening without compromising flavor. Enjoy a hearty dish that suits your dietary needs!
Bacon-Free: Skip the bacon and use leaner cuts of beef for a lighter version that still packs a flavor punch. You won’t miss the smokiness!
Vegetable Boost: Add hearty vegetables like potatoes or celery to lend extra texture and flavor. Each spoonful becomes a mixed treasure of deliciousness.
Herbal Twist: Substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or bay leaves for a different aromatic profile. Each herb will sing a new tune in this classic symphony.
Heat It Up: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Just a pinch will elevate the overall flavor and keep things exciting.
Wine Variety: Swap out the recommended red wine for a bold Merlot or a fruity Zinfandel. Different wines can create complex layers of flavor that surprise your palate.
Mushroom Medley: Use a mixture of wild mushrooms instead of just fresh ones to deepen the umami flavors. Each type adds its unique character, making every bite an adventure.
Sweetness Shift: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy twist. It balances the earthy elements beautifully, creating an unexpected flavor harmony.

Make Ahead Options

Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon is a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to simplify mealtime! You can prepare the stew up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, follow the initial steps of cooking the bacon, beef, and vegetables, then combine them with wine and broth in your Dutch oven. Once cooled, refrigerate the stew in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the stew on the stovetop over low heat, allowing it to simmer gently until warmed through. This method not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors, making your Beef Bourguignon just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy the convenience and delightful taste!

What to Serve with Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon?

The rich, hearty flavors of Beef Bourguignon create a perfect canvas for delightful side dishes that enhance the meal experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
These velvety potatoes provide a soothing balance to the robust stew, perfect for mopping up that glossy sauce.
Crusty French Bread:
Freshly baked bread is essential for scooping up every last drop of this delectable stew, adding a satisfying crunch.
Garlic Butter Green Beans:
Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter add a fresh, vibrant crunch that complements the rich flavors of the stew.
Roasted Root Vegetables:
Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes roasted to caramelized perfection bring earthiness and sweetness, enhancing the stew’s comfort.
Simple Arugula Salad:
A light, peppery arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the savory meat, balancing the richness.
Chardonnay or Pinot Noir:
A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a smooth Pinot Noir echoes the wine used in cooking, tying the meal together beautifully.
Dark Chocolate Mousse:
A decadent, silky chocolate mousse makes for a luxurious finish, leaving your guests with a sweet lingering taste of bliss.

How to Store and Freeze Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon

Room Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. If left out, do not keep at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Fridge: Store your Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to retain its rich flavors and prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of beef broth or red wine to restore its creamy consistency if needed.

Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs

What kind of wine should I use for Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon?
For the best flavor, I recommend using a good dry red wine like Cote du Rhone or Pinot Noir. However, you can substitute any dry red wine that you enjoy drinking. The wine not only enhances the flavor but also adds depth to the overall dish.

How should I store Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon?
Store your Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let it cool completely before sealing to lock in the rich flavors and prevent moisture buildup. When reheating, you can add a splash of beef broth or red wine to restore its luscious consistency.

Can I freeze Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To freeze, ensure the dish has cooled to room temperature, then portion it out for ease. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What should I do if my Beef Bourguignon is too thick?
If you find that your Beef Bourguignon is thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply add a little beef broth or red wine while reheating and stir until you reach your preferred consistency. It’s a great way to enhance the flavor while adjusting the texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you have dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free flour in place of the all-purpose flour without compromising on taste. Additionally, for a lighter option, you might consider omitting the bacon or using turkey bacon, ensuring it remains a wonderful comfort food that everyone can enjoy!